15 Astronomy Summer Programs for Middle School Students

If you're a middle school student interested in astronomy, summer programs in the field can be a smart, low-cost way to explore your interests more deeply. These programs focus on how scientists observe space, collect data, and use tools to understand what happens beyond Earth.

Some programs teach you how to read star charts, track the moon and planets, or understand how telescopes work. Others include basic computer tools and simulations for studying space systems. You may also learn how astronomers plan missions, utilize satellites, or analyze images from space. Most programs include step-by-step guidance. You’ll follow instructions, complete small tasks, ask questions, and sometimes work with other students. 

To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of 15 astronomy summer programs for middle school students!

15 Astronomy Summer Programs for Middle School Students

1. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program

Location: Virtual

Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. Apply here!

Program Dates: 8 weeks | Multiple cohorts in a year 

Eligibility: Grades 6-8

The Junior Explorer Program is an 8-week online mentorship for middle school students in grades 6 to 8. You choose a subject you are interested in, like AI, history, biology, or economics, and work on one with a mentor from a top university to build a project around it. Each week, you meet with your mentor, explore new ideas, and shape your project step by step. In the first few weeks, you try out different topics. Then you pick one and go deeper. By the end, you create something real, like a research paper or a presentation that shows what you learned. 

2. Veritas AI’s AI Trailblazers

Location: Remote

Application deadline: Rolling deadlines.

Program dates: 25 hours over 10 weeks (on weekends) during the spring cohort and 25 hours over 2 weeks (on weekdays) during the summer cohort.

Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8

The AI Trailblazers program by Veritas AI is a virtual program that teaches middle school students the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Over 25 hours, you will learn the basics of Python as well as topics like data analysis, regression, image classification, neural networks, and AI ethics.  You learn through lectures and group sessions with a 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio. Previous projects done by students have included building a machine-learning model to classify music genres and creating a machine-learning algorithm to provide a custom list of educational resources based on selected specifications.

3. Astronomy Summer Camp -Intro to Astrophysics

Location: Locations range from Georgetown University, UCLA, and Stanford University. Remote option also available

Cost: Varies based on the location and timing of the camp. Check the full price list here. 

Application deadline: Currently available, except for Georgetown University. 

Eligibility: 6th-8th graders

Program dates: Between July to August

Astronomy Summer Camp: Intro to Astrophysics is a one-week online program for middle school students in grades 6 to 8. You study how the universe began, how stars and galaxies form, and how scientists use light to understand space. You build simple tools, run virtual labs, and use spectroscopy to explore what distant objects are made of. You also learn basic rocketry and how humans travel beyond Earth. The camp includes group work and real data analysis, and you finish with a project that shows what you learned.

4. Infinity Science Center’s Artemis Camp

Location: Infinity Science Centre, Mississippi Gulf Coast

Cost: $315

Program dates: June 16-20 (Going into 7th – 11th Grade)

Application deadline: Not specified

Eligibility: Ages 12-16

Artemis Camp is a weeklong program for middle school students that focuses on the science and engineering behind space exploration. You study geology, chemistry, robotics, and aerospace systems by doing hands-on experiments that reflect real challenges in space missions. You design robotic systems, test materials, and learn how astronauts prepare for space travel. The camp uses tools and techniques from actual NASA research and encourages you to think across subjects as you solve problems. You also explore how humans travel to and survive on the Moon, connecting science lessons to real-world space exploration. 

5. Middle School Astronomy: Space Explorers

Location: Berkeley, California

Cost: Residential Tuition: $2,898, Commuter Tuition: $1,498, Application fee: $99

Application deadline: May 16

Program dates: Session 2: July 13 - July 18; Session 3: July 20 - July 25; Session 4: July 27 - August 1

Eligibility: Grades 6-8

Middle School Astronomy: Space Explorers is a one-week residential program at UC Berkeley where you’ll explore space science through hands-on experiments and real-world tools. You’ll build rockets, simulate Martian geology using rover data, study meteors and solar wind, and learn how to use telescopes and star wheels for stargazing. The curriculum combines physics, planetary geology, and orbital mechanics to help you understand how scientists study planets and space travel. You’ll also visit places like a planetarium or NASA’s Ames Visitor Center and meet professionals working in the field. 

6. Boston Leadership Institute Summer Science Program

Location: Gann Academy/Bentley University, Waltham, MA

Cost: Non-Residential Programme: One-week tuition: $699, One-week deposit to secure your seat: $200, Three-week tuition: $2500, Three-week deposit to secure your seat: $500; Residential Programme: One-week: $699, Three-week: $2097

Application deadline: Rolling until full

Program dates: June 30-July 18

Eligibility: Middle school students

Astrophysics & Space Science Intensive is a one-week program for students curious about how we study stars, black holes, and the search for alien life. You’ll explore topics like dark matter, stellar evolution, and planetary motion through lectures, data analysis, and hands-on projects. You’ll learn how scientists detect exoplanets using light patterns and analyze radio signals from space for signs of extraterrestrial intelligence. Using real data from missions like SETI and Cassini, you’ll apply physics to interpret actual space findings.

7. Rocket Center’s Space Camp

Location: U.S Space and Rocket Centre, Huntsville, AL

Cost: $1799

Application deadline: Registration opens in July of the year before the camp, or around that time, and runs on a first-come, first-served basis

Program dates: 27 July - 1st August; 3 August - 8 August 

Eligibility: Ages 9-11

Space Camp is a one-week program where you train like a young astronaut, using real NASA-inspired tools and simulations. You’ll take part in mock missions to the International Space Station, try astronaut simulators like the Multi-Axis Trainer and 1/6th Gravity Chair, and learn what it takes to live and work in space. You’ll build and launch a model rocket, design a Martian colony with your team, and complete underwater challenges that build problem-solving and communication skills. The program also includes engineering labs, space-themed activities, and a visit to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

8. Kennedy Space Centre Camp

Location: Kennedy Space Centre, Merritt Island, Florida

Cost: $399 plus tax

Application deadline: Not mentioned

Program dates: May 26-August 1

Eligibility: Ages 7-16

Camp KSC is a five-day program at Kennedy Space Center where you’ll train like a NASA astronaut using real equipment and mission zones. You’ll operate Mars rovers, build and launch rockets, and test your skills on simulators like the Microgravity Simulator and 1/6th Gravity Chair. Activities take place inside actual NASA exhibits, including the Astronaut Training Experience and Apollo/Saturn V Center, and are tailored to your age group. You’ll explore how astronauts live and work in space, design solutions for space travel, and see historic spacecraft like Atlantis up close. 

9. STEM Summer Camp at Spece Centre Houston

Location: Space Centre Houston, Houston, Texas

Cost: $439 for 3 days, $719 for 5 days

Application deadline: 

Program dates: June 30-July 2; July 21-25; August 4-8

Eligibility: Students aged 11-14

Space Center U is a multi-day STEM program at Space Center Houston where you’ll take on space-themed engineering challenges inspired by real NASA missions. You’ll build underwater airlock systems, practice emergency helicopter escapes, and work in teams to solve problems astronauts face in space. Each track focuses on different mission scenarios, giving you hands-on experience in aerospace engineering, robotics, and planetary science. You’ll use professional-grade tools, explore NASA exhibits, and hear directly from a NASA astronaut during the final graduation ceremony.

10. Summer Space Academy: Astronaut Bootcamp

Location: Clark Planetarium, Salt Lake City, Utah

Cost: $240

Application deadline: 

Program dates: June 16-18

Eligibility: 5th-6th graders

Astronaut Bootcamp is a weeklong program for rising 5th and 6th-graders that introduces them to space science through hands-on experiments, creative challenges, and team projects. You’ll explore how scientists are planning for life on the Moon and Mars, try astronaut-style fitness games, and even sample space food. Each day blends science, engineering, art, and math in activities that simulate real astronaut training. You’ll also learn about space careers and build problem-solving skills through guided projects that reflect real mission prep.

11. Air and Space Summer Camp

Location: Air and Space Museum, Lowry, Exploration of Flight - Centennial Airport, Denver

Cost: $399

Application deadline: Rolling 

Program dates: June 2-August 8

Eligibility: 8-12 years old

Air & Space Summer Camp at Wings Over the Rockies is a weeklong program for students ages 8–12 that blends hands-on STEAM activities with real aerospace exploration. Depending on the session, you might fly drones, build rockets, simulate a Mars mission, or explore deep space travel. Camp themes change weekly and cover topics like flight mechanics, robotics, and planetary science. Activities take place in authentic aviation settings like aircraft hangars and flight simulators—giving you behind-the-scenes access to aerospace tools and exhibits.

12. Fusion Academy – Summer Classes for Credit

Location: Multiple Fusion Academy campuses or virtual (1‑to‑1 or small-group format)

Cost: Tuition-based; varies by campus and program

Application deadline: Not specified

Program dates: Flexible start dates

Eligibility: Rising 5th–8th graders (middle school)

Fusion Academy offers personalized summer courses where middle and high school students can earn school credit and learn at their own pace. One of the options is middle school science, which includes space science. In this course, you’ll explore astronomy, the solar system, and Earth’s place in the universe. You’ll get personal attention through one-on-one or small group classes, flexible scheduling, and hands-on lab activities. (Note: Astronomy is an elective within a broader science curriculum, and that availability varies by campus.)

13. Orbits Curiosity Middle School Camp – Lowell Observatory

Location: Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff, AZ

Cost: $350 per child (camp members) / $400 (non-members); scholarships available

Application deadline: Registration opens January 17 each year; spots fill quickly 

Program dates: June 2–6 and June 16–20 (4 pm–10 pm each evening) 

Eligibility: Students entering grades 7–9 in the fall (ages 12–14)

This week-long day camp in Flagstaff focuses on practical sky observation and instrumentation. You’ll use telescopes, take astronomical photographs, and learn how to identify constellations and deep-sky objects. Lowell Observatory educators lead sessions on sky navigation, science-based games, and group hikes. Evening activities let you work with real instruments while applying STEM concepts outdoors. The camp runs from late afternoon through nightfall to take advantage of dark-sky conditions. Small group sizes mean you’ll get focused time with the tools and the sky.

14. Siena College – Astronomy in Color! Camp

Location: Siena College campus, Loudonville, NY

Cost: $450 (meals included)

Application deadline: Rolling—register early (spots limited)

Program dates: July 7–11 and August 4–8, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–8 in the fall (ages roughly 11–14)

Siena College – Astronomy in Color! Camp is a week-long program for middle school students interested in how astronomers use light to study space. You’ll build a spectroscope, explore the invisible colors of stars, and learn how different kinds of light reveal details about the universe. Led by educators from Siena College and Dudley Observatory, the camp includes workshops, experiments, and observational activities. You don’t need any background in astronomy to join. Small group sizes make it easier to get hands-on with tools and understand how astronomers use light to study the cosmos.

15. Johns Hopkins APL Summer Center for Space Science

Location: Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), Laurel, Maryland

Cost: $650; non-residential day camp; no scholarships or housing support available

Application deadline: Rolling; spots fill quickly; apply early

Program dates: July 7–18 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–8 in the fall

Johns Hopkins APL Summer Center for Space Science is a two-week day camp where middle school students explore space science and engineering through hands-on projects. You’ll work in teams to simulate a NASA Discovery mission by building spacecraft models, designing scientific instruments, and launching water-bottle rockets. Scientists and engineers from Johns Hopkins APL guide you through the process, and you’ll tour real labs and see actual space hardware. The camp ends with a team presentation of your mission plan to APL staff and family members, with feedback on how scientifically strong your ideas are.

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

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